City looking for input on changes to smoking bylaw

The City of Regina is looking for the public’s input about whether smoking should be allowed in public spaces.

Residents are invited to provide feedback through a survey and at a series of open houses about smoking at outdoor spaces including parks, pools, athletic fields and festivals.

It’s party of the City’s review of its smoking bylaw.

“Council wants to hear from residents, business owners, community partners and commercial organizations on changes to the smoking bylaw,” Mayor Michael Fougere said in a written statement. “We need to update our bylaw to reflect current community views on smoking in public places.”

“We want to hear from residents and the business community first about their opinions on smoking outdoors,” said Fire Chief Ernie Polsom in a news release.

Other Canadian cities have smoking bans in commercial spaces like restaurants. Others extend to public spaces owned by municipalities like parks, playgrounds, spray pads and recreational areas.

In Regina, many city facilities have already banned smoking inside fences at public pools, athletic fields and some other recreational areas. There is currently no bylaw regulating the ban. City Council will review proposed amendments to the bylaw this year.

“This is a public health matter affecting our whole community,” Fougere said. “I hope everyone takes a few minutes to let us know what they think.”

Open houses are scheduled for March 8 at City Hall at 5:30 p.m. and March 9 at the Cathedral Community Centre at 5:30 p.m. An online survey is available at regina.ca/smoking.